An often overlooked, yet crucial topic marketers should consider is kiosk accessibility for people with disabilities. At UserWay, we believe in a world where everyone can access technology with ease, and that includes kiosk experiences! Whether you’re a business owner or just curious about creating an inclusive environment, this blog is for you.
Understand the importance of accessibility for interactive, touch screen kiosks
Imagine arriving at a retail kiosk to perform a simple task, only to find that the buttons are too small, the screen is difficult to read, or the touch response is frustratingly unresponsive. For people with disabilities, this frustrating scenario is an extremely common reality. Kiosks are supposed to be convenient and efficient, but they’re the opposite when they exclude people with disabilities by having barriers to their access. Luckily when these users’ needs are integrated into the plan, you can easily accommodate them with kiosk accessibility.
Disabilities to consider when creating digital kiosks
Before we dive into the practical tips, let’s briefly cover the different types of disabilities that kiosk designers should consider.
Vision: People with low vision, blindness, or color blindness might struggle with small fonts, poor color contrast, and touch interfaces that don’t provide tactile feedback.
Hearing: Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals need alternative ways to receive information, as auditory cues might not be accessible to them.
Motor: People with limited mobility may face challenges using touch screens or physical buttons, requiring alternative input methods.
Cognitive: Individuals with cognitive disabilities need simple, intuitive, predictable interfaces with clear instructions.
Designing accessible kiosks
Now that you understand why accessibility is important, let’s explore some practical tips to make your kiosks inclusive to people with disabilities.
1. Built Environment: While this article focuses mainly on how digital accessibility affects kiosks, the location, height, and operability of kiosks need to factor in people with disabilities too–including wheelchair users! How users get to and access the kiosk must meet ADA kiosk requirements.
2. Clear and Concise Language: Use plain language and simple instructions on the kiosk interface. Avoid jargon and be straightforward to ensure easy comprehension.
3. Font Size and Contrast: Opt for a legible font with adjustable size options. Ensure high color contrast between text and background for better visibility, especially for those with low vision and colorblindness.
4. Text-to-Speech and Speech-to-Text: Implement text to speech functionality to read out on-screen text for users with vision disabilities. Additionally, consider speech-to-text features to accommodate those who may have difficulty typing. Make sure these features also ensure the privacy of your users.
5. Alternative Input Methods: Provide touch alternatives like large buttons or joystick interfaces for people with motor disabilities.
6. Audio and Visual Cues: Use both audio and visual cues to communicate important information to accommodate individuals with hearing and vision disabilities.
7. Error Handling: Offer clear and helpful error messages at the time an error is made (not after trying to submit an error filled form) that guide users on how to correct their actions.
Testing and feedback on interactive kiosks
It is essential to involve people with disabilities during the design process and gather their insights to address potential barriers. You may have considered all of these accessibility tips when creating an accessible kiosk, but having people with disabilities show you how they use your kiosk will highlight areas you did not consider.
Creating an accessible kiosk is only the first step! Regular testing and feedback collection are essential to ensure its effectiveness throughout the life of the kiosk.
Include kiosk accessibility in your digital inclusion journey
Kiosk accessibility cannot be an afterthought. It’s a fundamental aspect of creating an inclusive society. By implementing these tips, you can make your kiosk experience accessible to all, regardless of their abilities. At UserWay, we believe that accessibility is a journey, and we’re here to accompany you every step of the way. Together, let’s build a world where technology empowers everyone.
Common FAQs
What is digital accessibility, and why does it matter for businesses?
Digital accessibility refers to designing and developing digital content, including websites, apps, and kiosks in a way that ensures equal access for people with disabilities. It matters for businesses because it allows them to reach a wider audience, avoid legal and reputation risks, and foster a more inclusive and positive customer experience. People with disabilities are also a loyal consumer base with trillions of dollars in spending power.
How do kiosks contribute to digital accessibility efforts?
Kiosks are an integral part of digital accessibility efforts as they extend online services and interactions to physical spaces. By making kiosks accessible, businesses provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to access information, complete transactions, and engage with services in an inclusive manner. This bridges the gap between digital and real-world interactions.
Are there legal requirements for making kiosks accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes, there are legal requirements in many regions, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States and similar legislation in other countries. These laws mandate that public accommodations, including digital services offered through kiosks, must be accessible to people with disabilities. Non-compliance can lead to legal action and negative publicity. Ensuring kiosk accessibility is not just a moral imperative but also a legal obligation.
